02/08/2026
A busy week for the farm team, exhibiting at both the New Forest and Cranleigh Shows!
On Thursday, we were joined by newly appointed show team member Lesley Joseph and the ITV Love Your Weekend team. It was also fantastic to catch up with many of our alumni, including former Agriculture student Olivia, who stepped in to help us in the ring when we had six sheep being judged at once.
Over the two days, our sheep achieved:
🥇 6 first places
🥈 8 second places
🥉 5 third places
🏅 2 fourth places
🏅 1 fifth place
It’s a busy show season for the farm, and next weekend the team will be heading to Chertsey Show. Wish us luck! 🐑
15/05/2026
🌍🐢Today is Endangered Species Day — a chance to raise awareness of the incredible animals around the world that urgently need our protection. 💚
Here at Merrist Wood College and University Centre, we’re proud to care for a number of endangered and critically endangered species as part of our ongoing commitment to conservation and education.
🔴 Critically Endangered species in our collection:
• Roti Island Snake Neck Turtles
• Indochinese Box Turtles
• Axolotls
🟠 Endangered species in our collection:
• Sulcata Tortoises
• Java Sparrows
• Fly River Turtle
• Hog Island Boa
• African Grey Parrot🦜
Every species plays an important role in our planet’s ecosystems, and days like this remind us why conservation matters more than ever.
08/05/2026
Today we celebrate an incredible milestone — 100 years of Sir David Attenborough.
For so many of us working in animal care and education, David Attenborough has been far more than a broadcaster. He has been an inspiration, opening our eyes to the beauty, complexity and importance of the natural world. His lifelong passion for wildlife has helped shape the dreams and careers of countless staff who chose to work with animals, care for them, and teach the next generation to do the same.
His impact is just as powerful for our students today. Through his storytelling, compassion and unwavering commitment to the planet, he continues to inspire young people to follow their passion for animal care, conservation and the living world around them.
At Merrist Wood, we see that influence every day in the curiosity, dedication and ambition of our staff and students.
Happy 100th birthday, Sir David Attenborough — thank you for inspiring generations to care more deeply, learn more passionately, and protect the natural world for the future. 💚🌍🐾
